Health Council welcomes new coordinator

SILVER CITY - Cari Lemon has joined Grant County Community Health Council as a coordinator, according to a news release issued on Wednesday.

Lemon will supervise community efforts to enact the Grant County Health and Wellness Plan, a strategic model to better the quality of life for local residents.

A longtime resident of Grant County, Lemon previously worked at Western New Mexico University holding several positions there, most recently Director of Alumni Affairs. Lemon has been involved with the Virus Theater Company, and recently in the lead role of “Mary Poppins.”

Her first order of business is to meet with each Health Council member and their community action groups. Lemon also partnered with Youth Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition on a grant application to support development of a youth recreation center. Partnering with WNMU’s School of Nursing, she hopes to continue efforts to train caregivers in the community.

“Cari brings a wealth of experience to our organization and her passion for everything she touches is impressive,” said Health Council Chairwoman Priscilla Lucero.

Lucero represents the Economic Development Sector on the Health Council in her position of Executive Director of the Southwest New Mexico Council of Governments.

Lemon has a master’s degree in Elementary Education, with endorsements in Psychology and Music from WNMU.

“There’s so much opportunity and potential for strengthening community connections and collaborating efforts in Grant County,” added Lemon.

The Health Council is the Health and Wellness Planning Authority of the Grant County Board of Commissioners, who appoints the 30 members Council.